Carmel vs Lafayette: Optometrist Salary (2026)
Compare optometrist salaries between Carmel, IN and Lafayette, IN. All figures are 2026 estimates projected from BLS 2025 data.
Side-by-Side Comparison
| Metric | Carmel, IN | Lafayette, IN |
|---|---|---|
| Median Salary | $140,422▲ | $138,821 |
| Hourly Rate | $67.51▲ | $66.74 |
| Entry Level (P10) | $81,444▲ | $75,490 |
| 25th Percentile | $114,555▲ | $108,396 |
| 75th Percentile | $171,172▲ | $160,865 |
| Top Earner (P90) | $209,175▲ | $199,073 |
| Total Employed | 15 | 50▲ |
Verdict
Carmel, IN offers better overall compensation for optometrists, winning 3 out of 4 metrics compared to Lafayette.
The salary gap between Carmel and Lafayette is $1,601 (1.15%). Carmel's median is -0.14% compared to the US national median of $140,612.
Salary Range Comparison
The full salary range (10th to 90th percentile) in Carmel spans $127,731,Lafayette spans $123,583. Carmel has a wider pay range, meaning more potential for high earners but also more variation.
Cost-of-Living Adjusted Comparison
After cost-of-living adjustment, Carmel ($153,803 effective) pays 3.51% more than Lafayette ($148,583 effective).
Cost-of-living adjustment: salary × (100 / CoL index). Index of 100 = national average.
Which City Is Right for You?
Choose Carmel if…
- ✓Higher median salary ($140,422/year)
- ✓Better top-earner potential ($209,175)
- ✓Better purchasing power (CoL-adjusted: $153,803)
- ✓You prefer the Indiana area and lifestyle
Choose Lafayette if…
- ✓Larger job market (50 employed)
- ✓You prefer the Indiana area and lifestyle
Historical Salary Growth Comparison
Based on BLS OEWS metropolitan area data, optometrist salaries in Carmel grew 17.1% from 2024 to 2025, compared to 36.9% growth in Lafayette over the same period.
Carmel, IN
$116,474 (2024) → $136,385 (2025)
Lafayette, IN
$98,490 (2020) → $134,830 (2025)
View Full Salary Data
Carmel, IN
Lafayette, IN
Frequently Asked Questions
Which city pays optometrists more: Carmel or Lafayette?
What is the hourly rate difference between Carmel and Lafayette?
Should I relocate from Carmel to Lafayette as a optometrist?
What do entry-level optometrists earn in Carmel vs Lafayette?
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Written by Aisha Patel, OD
Career Analyst
Aisha Patel has 10 years of experience in optometry. She specializes in pediatric vision care. Aisha works in a private practice setting.
Methodology & Data Source
All salary figures are 2026 projections based on BLS OEWS May 2025 data. A 2.96% CAGR (derived from 6-year national BLS trends) was applied to estimate current compensation. Cost-of-living adjustments use BEA Regional Price Parity data. Actual salaries vary by employer, certifications, and experience.
Data Sources & Methodology
Source: BLS, OEWS , released .
Compiled and verified by Aisha Patel, OD, a licensed optometrist with 10+ years of clinical experience. · View source data at BLS.gov